Florida Military History Museums

The SS American Victory ship is a victory ship that saw service in World War 2. Launched right at the end of the war in June of 1945, the SS American Victory saw only brief service in the Pacific Theater. American Victory ferried cargo to the Southeast Asian theater before the war came to a close. She would go on to serve in the Korean War, World War 2, and the Vietnam War before being placed in reserve. 

The American Victory Ship & Museum in Tampa Florida has been taking care of her since 1999. As one of only 3 surviving Victory Ships, the SS American Victory is an amazing sight to see. According to the museum’s website visitors “experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery and relive history by visiting cavernous three level cargo holds, radio and gyro rooms, hospital, galley, weaponry, steering stations, flying bridge, signaling equipment, wheelhouse, mess halls, engine room, crew cabins, lifeboats and cargo equipment, then gaze upon photographs, uniforms, medals, documents and naval equipment.”

Aboard ship visitors will see original equipment such as her 3 in bow mounted deck gun, 5 inch stern gun and another 3 inch gun. The most amazing thing about this ship is her operational status. The SS American Victory has been a fully operational ship since 2003. Typically, the museum will go on two “Relive History Cruises” a year. There are only a few operating World War 2 ships in the world that visitors can actually ride on. If traveling from afar it is definitely worth scheduling your visit to make one of these rides. The museum keeps a very active social media following and definitely makes for a good follow. As usual, before traveling long distances we recommend checking the museums website for up to date hours. 

The Zephyrhills Museum of Military History is an excellent place to explore the illustrious history of the armed services. Here, one has the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the individuals and sacrifices of those who served - from veterans' anecdotes to in-depth scholarly articles about military operations over time. With fully interactive exhibits and educational activities for the whole family, this museum is truly a great way to honor their service and commemorate the past. Visitors will be able to learn more about our troops' triumphs, defeats, and experiences with displays that are as informative as they are absorbing. From artifacts from various wars such as World War Two, all the way through current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan - this collection captures so many moments in a unique way. As a tribute to all members of the armed forces, this museum seeks to preserve an important part of our nation's history.

Amazingly, the museum itself is a piece of history. Zephyrhills Museum of Military History sits on the former site of the Zephyrhills Army Airfield. Zephyrhills Army Airfield is a former U.S. Army airfield that was located in Pasco County in the U.S. state of Florida. It was initially established as a training facility for pilots of the 10th Fighter Squadron during World War II and remained active until 1944 when it was decommissioned by the United States military. Despite its past as a military facility, Zephyrhills Army Airfield has become an exciting place of discovery for families looking to explore the historic grounds together.